USC scoops up late commitment from 2025 4-star linebacker AJ Tuitele

Lincoln Riley and USC have added yet another piece to their 2025 football recruiting class, landing North Las Vegas (Nev.) Mojave four-star linebacker AJ Tuitele.

The 6-foot-3, 205-pounder was previously signed with Washington State, but was released from his financial aid agreement when the Cougars staff left for Wake Forest. The Trojans offered him a little more than a week later and got him to campus for an official visit the weekend of January 18.

That visit was key in this decision.

“I just felt the family atmosphere of the whole team and the coaching staff when I went on my visit,” Tuitele told On3. “That was a big part of my commitment. They’re already giving me ideas on my development in college, so that was a factor too. Another reason I committed to USC was that they have a great game plan for me when I get developed.”

Tuetele made his final decision on Sunday. He said USC beat out Arizona, Texas and UNLV.

It wasn’t easy decision, but he feels it is the right decision, and he can’t wait to start his career in Los Angeles.

“What was tough was the coaches I had to tell the news to, I’m excited to see my development and to create that bond with my new brothers for the next 3-4 years.”

Now he joins a class that ranks No. 15 nationally and No. 5 in the Big Ten, according to the On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings.

Tuitele finished his senior season with 196 total tackles, including 39 tackles for a loss. He also notched five sacks, six QB hurries, nine pass breakups, and two forced fumbles. 

In the final On300, he was tabbed as the nation’s No. 15 linebacker and No. 1 recruit in Nevada and the No. 147 overall prospect.